She claimed she didn’t remember it looking this beautiful.
In November of 2023, Galveston welcomed the seaside-modern boutique propertyHotel Lucineand its notable restaurant,The Fancy.
Keath was born in Galveston and always dreamed of returning and helping to revive the city.
Colorful homes line the street in Galveston, Texas.Credit:Courtesy of Mariah Tyler
These few blocks mark 190 years of history.
Matagorda Bay
Our next stop on this meandering four-day springtime trip lies 106 miles to the west.
The tree-lined farm to market road took us back down to where the Colorado River spills into the gulf.
Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier.Courtesy of Mariah Tyler
Here, homes sit along canals and flags advertise fresh live shrimp and crawfish.
Boats parked on trailers dot the inlets leading toMatagorda Bay Nature Parkand campground.
Our lunch was of course poboys, french fries, and iced teaa gulf classic.
Even as a non-birdwatcher, observing the birds and serious birders was a delightful way to spend an afternoon.
The center is free and buzzing with activity.
The main attraction for nature enthusiasts is Port Aransass proximity to wildlife refuges and state parks like Mustang Island.
Beyond the sand dunes, the beach provides a scenic escape from the more crowded beaches of Port Aransas.
The hatchling release period from mid-June to August is a popular time for visiting.
San Antonio, the second-largest city in Texas, was our natural end to the trip.
For out-of-state travelers, it offers a convenient airport for a return flight home.
For me, it is home.
Homes and the Al Edwards Statue at Ashton Villa Mansion in Galveston, Texas.Courtesy of Mariah Tyler
Kayaking where the Colorado river spills into Matagorda Bay.Courtesy of Mariah Tyler
Scenic views of Rockport, Texas.Courtesy of Mariah Tyler
Details of a guest room at Reel ‘em Inn in Rockport, Texas.Courtesy of Mariah Tyler
Calm waters of Rockport Beach, the first Blue Wave beach on the Texas gulf.Courtesy of Mariah Tyler
Scenic views of beach boardwalks in Port Aransas, Texas.Courtesy of Mariah Tyler
The tall wooden sailors sit outside of The Islander Port Aransas.Courtesy of Mariah Tyler
The beautiful beaches of Mustang Island State Park in Port Aransas, Texas.Courtesy of Mariah Tyler
Padre Island National Seashore has 66 miles of protected and unbothered coastline.Courtesy of Mariah Tyler
The Grasslands Nature Trail in Corpus Christi.Courtesy of Mariah Tyler
